A patient returns to the ward after a total thyroidectomy. The patient develops noisy breathing and increasing difficulty inhaling. What is the priority nursing action?
Correct answer: B. Assess the airway and call for immediate assistance
- A. Place the patient flat and offer sips of water
- B. Assess the airway and call for immediate assistance
- C. Apply a warm dressing over the neck incision
- D. Encourage coughing to clear throat secretions
Explanation
Noisy breathing after thyroid surgery may indicate airway obstruction from swelling, bleeding or vocal cord problems. Airway assessment and urgent assistance take priority because airway and breathing emergencies must be managed before comfort measures or wound care.
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About Oncology Nursing
Covers cancer biology, tumour staging, common malignancies and nursing care during surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy and palliative treatment. It includes managing nausea, pain, fatigue, mucositis, neutropenia and extravasation, while distinguishing expected treatment effects from dangerous complications requiring urgent action.
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